Studies on direct and residual effect of organic, inorganic and biofertilizers on growth of Mungbean

Abstract

A field experiment entitled “Studies on Direct and Residual Effect of Organic, Inorganic and Biofertilizers on Mungbean” was conducted during the Kharif season of 2024 at Rama University, Kanpur, to evaluate the individual and interactive effects of fertilizers on growth, yield, soil fertility, and economics. The soil was sandy loam, neutral in pH, with high organic carbon and low to medium fertility. The experiment included 18 treatment combinations of three inorganic fertilizer levels (50%, 75%, and 100% RDF), two organic manure levels (control and FYM @ 5 t/ha), and three biofertilizers (Rhizobium, LNM-16, and Rhizobium + LNM-16), laid out in a factorial randomized block design with three replications using Pant Mung 5 variety. Application of 100% RDF significantly improved plant height, dry matter accumulation, growth indices, yield attributes, grain and biological yield, protein yield, and economic returns. FYM @ 5 t/ha enhanced chlorophyll content, nodule number, leaf area index, and nutrient uptake. Rhizobium + LNM-16 biofertilizer inoculation recorded maximum growth, yield, nutrient absorption, and profitability. While 1000-grain weight and protein content remained unaffected, grain yield and nutrient uptake increased significantly with integrated nutrient management. The mungbean-mustard cropping system showed higher productivity, profitability, and residual nutrient availability under 100% RDF, FYM @ 5 t/ha, and Rhizobium + LNM-16 treatments. Hence, integrated use of 100% RDF, FYM, and dual biofertilizer inoculation is recommended for sustainable mungbean cultivation and improved soil health. However, further multi-season research is necessary for broader recommendations.